School board recognizes network teacher of the year

At the February school board meeting, Carl Lyman from the Utah State Office of Education was invited by Vice-President Royd Hatt to make a presentation to Wayne Roberts, an Electronics Technician for the District who also teaches a computer network class at Emery High School. Lyman explained that each year, Novell and the Utah State Office of Education select a "Network Teacher of the Year." Mr. Roberts has been selected as the recipient of the award this year. Lyman went on to explain that one of the reasons Roberts was selected for this recognition is his track record of success. Novell sponsors a very competitive scholarship for high school seniors who obtain certain network certifications. Of the eight years Mr. Roberts has taught the network class at Emery High School, one of his students has received this scholarship seven of these years. Lyman also recognized Roberts for developing and teaching an excellent class and for pushing his students to complete industry test. Roberts was then presented with an award plaque and check.

Members of the Board and Superintendent Sitterud offered their congratulations to Roberts, noting that he is an asset to the District through both his teaching and technology expertise.

Jared Black, business manager updated the Board on the status of water shares held by the School District, recommending that the Board approve the lease of water shares to municipalities in Emery County. The leases would be identical to those offered in past years. The board agreed to lease these shares.

Black reviewed a Service Agreement with Great American Plan Administrators (GAPA) that would provide the District with a third-party administrator for 403(b) contracts. He explained that the IRS has implemented new requirements for the administration of 403(b) plans and consequently, the District needs a third-party administrator. GAPA will provide a similar type of administration to the District's 403(b) plans that Utah Retirement Systems provides for 401(k) and 457 plans. GAPA will provide this service at no charge to the District and employee accounts will not be affected.

Canyon View Junior High Principal Larry W. Davis updated the Board on programs and progress at Canyon View Junior High School. He reviewed the school's mission statement, desired results for student learning and the 2007-08 goals. In a review of the CVJH demographics, Davis noted that the school is at its smallest studentbody number ever, 176, down 18 students from a year ago. The school has 14 teachers on its staff and 29 employees in all. Davis praised a number of school organizations for community service projects and humanitarian endeavors, and also detailed the impressive participation of students in Castle Valley Activities Association competitive activities.

Listing a number of capital outlay project requests, the Principal discussed school improvement needs. Also, he listed a number of grant projects benefiting students which include the Top Cat Achievers program, English Language Learner (ELL) tutoring, Trust Lands, business partnerships, and character education. In speaking about academic progress at the school, Mr. Davis reported that the school made AYP for the 2006-07 school year and is currently working on accreditation, round two. Several academic enhancement programs were outlined, including the school's literacy program and learning strategies class.

Davis listed the following academic needs: a full-time counselor, additional resource aide time, and time for professional development. The Board was also given a calendar of school events through March. In closing, Mr. Davis thanked the Board for supporting the school, and helping to make it a great place to learn and work.

Board Vice-President Hatt thanked Principal Davis for his wonderful leadership and ability to successfully administer the educational needs at the school. Marie Johnson also expressed her appreciation to Mr. Davis, noting the unity and congenial atmosphere that Davis has developed at Canyon View.

Superintendent Sitterud reported on some of the bills that are being proposed for the upcoming Legislative session.

Black mentioned that the District received a letter from Risk Management concerning the rental of school buses to outside groups.

Upon reconvening to general session at 8:40 pm, Superintendent Sitterud recommended that Jody Carter, Steven Gordon, John Hughes, and Dean Stilson be approved for participation in the Administrative Licensure reimbursement program as outlined in policy GCI.